0:28The meeting’s focal point was the appointment of Todd Formasav to the Beverly Airport Commission. Formasav presented his extensive experience, including 40 years in professional flying and active involvement with Beverly Airport, making him a suitable candidate to address resident concerns about airport operations. His background in safety and security, along with his local residency, was highlighted as assets in understanding and addressing noise and traffic patterns affecting Danvers residents.

Board members engaged Formasav in a discussion about how he plans to balance the commission’s role with the interests of Danvers residents. Formasav acknowledged the challenges of federal and state regulations that limit local authority over airport operations. Formasav also mentioned potential lobbying efforts to address noise abatement, drawing from his personal experience in lobbying for environmental law changes.

The board’s deliberation on Formasav’s appointment occurred against the backdrop of heightened community concerns about noise levels from Beverly Airport. Residents in areas like Woodville have consistently raised issues about airplane noise, urging the Select Board to take a stronger stance in addressing these disruptions. During public comments, Mr. Bradstreet suggested exploring noise reduction strategies similar to those used on aircraft carriers. He expressed worries about potential runway lengthening, which might accommodate larger aircraft, exacerbating the noise problem.

27:51The board also addressed a recent incident involving a plane crash on Plum Island, which amplified safety concerns among residents. An attendee at the meeting criticized the airport’s management, urging the board to increase pressure on the airport for compliance with resident concerns. This sentiment echoed the need for a more assertive approach from the board as residents expressed frustration over the persistent noise issues driving some to leave Danvers.

While tackling airport concerns, the Select Board also reviewed the town’s recent credit rating downgrade from AAA to AA+. The town manager explained that the downgrade resulted from a change in S&P’s methodology, which now emphasizes pension and Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liabilities. Despite the lower rating, the town has improved in numerous financial metrics, such as stronger reserves and better financial management. The downgrade does not immediately impact Danvers’ financial standing, as there are no major projects on the horizon requiring new bonding. The manager reassured the board of the town’s continued fiscal prudence, emphasizing plans to fully fund the pension plan by 2035.

57:29The meeting also focused on community engagement and departmental funding. One board member highlighted an impressive turnout at a recent meeting, stressing the importance of public participation in managing Danvers’ growth. There were clarifications regarding the allocation of funds among department heads, with assurances that no reallocation was occurring and all department heads would remain in their positions pending the appointment of a new town manager.

In a separate discussion, the board considered the potential for a community advisory committee to gather residents’ concerns in support of the existing airport commissioners. This proposal was well-received, and it was suggested for future agenda consideration. Legal counsel confirmed that any requests for additional representation on the commission must be directed to Beverly, as the airport is governed by Beverly’s ordinances.

The board concluded with announcements regarding upcoming events, including the Human Rights and Inclusion Committee meeting and local elections scheduled for May 6. Early in-person voting was set for April 26, with vote-by-mail applications available online and at the town clerk’s office. The discussion also touched on the pursuit of grants from state agencies to support the town’s long-term objectives, acknowledging the restrictions and requirements that accompany such funding.